I deeply appreciate the wonders that a warm cup of coffee can perform in the early morning — especially its effects on my productivity. One of the most essential tools for excellent homemade coffee is a high-quality coffee grinder. Here are five picks; we'd love to know if you've tried any of these out. How did they perform?

It's essential to purchase coffee beans whole and either grind them for each use or grind then store in an air tight container. There are many different brands and grinders on the market that range from beginner to expert. There's no right or wrong grinder to purchase; it's all about finding one that meets your needs and expectations.

A plus side to a smaller, less expensive grinder is that it can double as a spice grinder (just be sure to clean thoroughly after each use). Here are 5 credible coffee grinders: